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Karin Williams
is a gem awaiting discovery by fans of vocal jazz. A native of the
West Indies who has settled in New Orleans and become a regular
attraction in the downtown scene (primarily at the Ritz-Carlton),
this self-produced CD evidently marks her debut as a leader. Focusing
primarily on standards, the arrangements by Williams, pianist Darrell
Lavigne, bassist David Pulphus, and drummer Troy Davis complement
her sensual voice. Her lightly swinging take of "Moonlight
in Vermont" is full of playfulness, accented by the solos of
tenor saxophonist Brice Winston (who slyly detours into "Rockin'
in Rhythm") and Lavigne. Lavigne's fresh scoring of "They
Can't Take That Away From Me" brings new life to this venerable
standard, showcasing Williams in an upbeat setting. She's also able
to capture the essence of the lovely bossa nova "Estate,"
and especially excels in the exotic post-bop treatment (with Latin
rhythms and Hart McNee's bass flute) of Cole Porter's "You'd
Be So Nice to Come Home To." Williams is equally at home revisiting
a swing favorite like "Don't Be That Way," though the
introduction to this version has a definite New Orleans flavor.
The finale, "Relax Awhile," is Williams' own, a bluesy
but sensuous vehicle that also features fine playing by Winston,
trumpeter Christian Scott, and guitarist John Bagnato. This excellent
CD is available through the artist's web site at www.karinwilliams.net.
— Ken Dryden |
